Costa Rica did Italy two big favours when they upset Uruguay at the World Cup.
The Central American side not only denied one of the Azzurri’s Group D rivals precious points with a 3-1 win but also alerted Cesare Prandelli’s men of the danger that awaits them on Friday.
Italy beat England 2-1 and will take aim at their second win against the Costa Ricans in Recife.
“It was better for us that Costa Rica beat Uruguay otherwise we would have risked underestimating them. Now we won’t,” Italy midfielder Daniele De Rossi said. “We have to have the right fear.
“There are no longer weak teams in the tournament. Costa Rica showed they are a good side and that they have interesting players – but to win would guarantee us qualification to the next round.”
Italy are joint top of their pool, level on three points with Costa Rica heading into the encounter at the Arena Pernambuco.
The Azzurri will play at 20:00 on Friday and despite the warm conditions that await them, De Rossi says the Italians will be able to cope thanks to their football approach.
“Prandelli has created our style of play, adapting it to our own characteristics,” the Roma midfielder said. “It’s very hot but our way of playing means that we are not affected as much as other teams by the conditions.
“I see national teams that after half an hour of playing, they go at two kilometres per hour. However, the heat will be more of a problem for us because our rivals are used to the tropical climate.”
FIFA will only allow threeminute time-outs for players to drink water if the temperature is 32°C or above.
Italy will fly to Recife on Thursday morning before holding a practice session at the Arena Pernambuco a few hours later.
Prandelli had all 23 players available in Wednesday's morning training session at the Azzurri's base camp.
LIKELY LINE-UPS
Italy (4-1-4-1)
Sirigu; Darmian, Barzagli, Paletta, Chiellini; De Rossi; Candreva, Verratti, Pirlo, Marchisio; Balotelli.
Costa Rica (5-4-1)
Navas; Gamboa, Duarte, Gonzalez, Umana, Diaz; Ruiz, Borges, Tejeda, Bolanos; Campbell.
PLAYERS TO WATCH
Italy – Mario Balotelli
Why always him? Because he’s a serious talent when wearing the colours of the Azzurri. In exceptional form against England, Balotelli needs to prove he is the man for all occasions, not just the biggest. He could well lead this Italy side to the latter stages of the competition.
Costa Rica – Joel Campbell
The Arsenal man showcased his pace, power and finishing ability in a fine display against Uruguay and once again has the potential to upset the Italians. Campbell up against a slow set of full-backs could wreak havoc if he’s at the top of his game.
SPORT360° PREDICTION
Italy rarely slip up in World Cup matches they are expected to win. A measured 2-0 Italy triumph should follow in Recife.
